Many key-bindings accept prefix arguments.  A prefix argument is an
    integer that is generated prior to a key sequence and is used as a way
    of controlling the behavior the key sequence.  It is generated by
    pressing the ESC key and then pressing the keys that correspond to the
    integer.  For example, to generate a prefix argument of 314, simply
    press the 4 keys: ESC 3 1 4.

    Some functions use such arguments as repeat factors.  That is, the
    function bound to the key sequence that they modify will be repeated the
    number of times specified by the prefix argument.

    Some other functions may simply use it as a way of slightly modifying
    the behavior of the function.  For example, if a prefix argument is
    used as a modifier for the `followup' function, the original article's
    headers will be included in the followup message.  Without a prefix
    argument, the headers will not be included in followups.

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